Harness Racing Victoria's HERO Program is set to welcome its second professional Registered Retrainer.

In an exciting development for the trail-blazing standardbred life after racing project, Bendigo horsewoman Elle Moro will join the HERO staff from September 1.

Her appointment doubles the program’s resources and follows the recent re-appointment of Warren Cochrane of Cobe Lodge as a full-time HERO Registered Retrainer for a second year.

Moro is a state enrolled nurse who has turned her back on the profession to pursue her passion for horses, in particular standardbreds – an interest inherited from her grandfather Garry Jackson.

She was an active member of the Riddells Creek Pony Club for 10 years as a youngster and previously worked as a stablehand with Chris and Alison Alford.

For the past nine months, she has focused on her long-term goal of establishing an equine business – Moro Equine Services.

Moro is a skilled and experienced horsewoman who enjoys trail riding and competition campdrafting, in addition to educating and training her family’s racing stock.

She recently completed a special project on behalf of HERO, educating Allawart Dollar under saddle in preparation for a career with the Horsham Branch of Riding for the Disabled, and is a regular instructor with the Northern Standardbred Riding Group.

“Elle will be an enormous asset to the program,” HERO Manager Tanya McDermott said.

“Her harness racing background, extensive equine networks and commitment to promoting standardbreds in their life after racing make her an ideal fit.

“She is a valuable addition to Team HERO as we strive to meet growing industry demand for re-education and rehoming services."

Moro, who recently purchased a property at Eppalock, is looking forward to the challenge.

“I love working with standardbreds and I’m proud to be a part of the HERO Program,” she enthused.

“They’re brilliant horses and it’s a privilege to be given the opportunity to guide their transition into life after racing.

“There has been such a change in attitude toward standardbreds as riding and recreational horses in recent years, momentum is definitely at an all-time high."

For further information, follow HRV HERO on Facebook and Twitter or visit www.hrvhero.com.au